4-H Congress Encourages Career Readiness, Volunteer Engagement
More than 300 4-H members and volunteers from 42 counties visited Montana State University last week for the Montana 4-H Congress, an annual program offering competitive events, workshops, entertainment and social activities.
As the youth development program of MSU Extension, Montana 4-H reaches more than 14,000 youth each year and is supported by more than 3,000 volunteers.
Ellie Weldon, a 4-H member from Beaverhead County in the Sagebrush and Snowdrifts 4-H club, said 4-H Congress gives her an outlet to share ideas and create new ones to bring back to her county.
Weldon and 4-H attendees participate in competitive events at 4-H Congress, with the potential to advance to national contests later in the year.
“Being in 4-H was the first thing I’ve been a part of where I felt like I was on a team. I’m proud of the roles I’ve played as informational officer, project leader, club president and county ambassador. I’ve learned about countless opportunities and gained skills that will last me a lifetime,” Weldon said.
Competitive topics at the event, which ran July 7-11, included career communications, demonstrations, fashion review, gavel games, horse judging, hippology, illustrated talks, livestock judging, public speaking, quilting, cooking stir-ups and videography.
Brett Schomer, Montana 4-H youth leadership specialist, said 4-H Congress is one of the largest youth development events during the year, providing members with an in-depth educational experience and an opportunity to explore the MSU campus.
“This experience is unlike any other Montana 4-H offers,” Schomer said. “Our youth network with other members across the state and gain exposure to career pathways by interacting with MSU faculty and staff, many of whom are experts in their field. This year, attendees also completed a financial simulation workshop.”
Schomer said MSU Extension agents and approximately 45 volunteers provided critical support for the event.
“Our volunteers make Montana 4-H Congress a success year after year,” said Schomer. “Contest judging, workshops, chaperoning and logistics require a significant amount of planning and execution that simply isn’t possible without support from volunteers across the state.”
Park County 4-H volunteer Allison Swartz attended for the week and said this year’s 4-H Congress challenged youth to help them grow through new experiences. Volunteers like Swartz serve local 4-H programs across Montana, coordinating leadership activities, educational programs and special events.
While Montana youth can be involved in 4-H throughout the year, annual enrollment begins in October. Those interested in learning more about 4-H Congress or enrollment can contact their local Extension office or visit www.montana.edu/4h.
